In recent days, New York has seen a wave of sexual abuse lawsuit filings against several celebrities. This flurry of activity comes as a result of the expiration of a New York state law. Known as the Adult Survivors Act, the law temporarily lifted the statute of limitations on civil abuse and harassment claims, regardless of when the events occurred. The Act, passed in response to the wider “Me Too” movement, came into effect on November 24, 2022, and expired recently.
Notable among those named in these lawsuits are New York Mayor Eric Adams, music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs, and rock legend Axl Rose. If not dismissed or settled, these figures, among others, could potentially face jury trials. Despite having been in effect for a relatively short time, the Adult Survivors Act has already had significant consequences. One high-profile case resulted in former President Donald Trump being held liable by a Manhattan jury for sexually abusing New York author E. Jean Carroll in the 1990s, leading to a $5 million damages payment.
The majority of cases under the Adult Survivors Act are in the early stages. Let’s examine some of those recently filed. A woman filed a $5 million lawsuit against New York Mayor Eric Adams, alleging she was sexually assaulted by him in 1993 when they both worked for the City of New York. She argues her case includes elements of “sexual assault, battery, and employment discrimination.” Adams denies the allegation entirely.
A second similar lawsuit was filed by former executive assistant Brittany Commisso against former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo. The complaint alleges that Cuomo groped her breast and buttocks, subjected her to constant sexual harassment, and retaliated against her. Cuomo has denied these allegations.
Music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs is also facing legal challenges. Joi Dickerson-Neal filed a lawsuit on Thanksgiving Day accusing Combs of drugging and raping her in 1991, during her time as a Syracuse University student. The suit claims that Combs recorded the alleged assault and showed it to others, causing Dickerson-Neal enduring emotional and physical harm.
Axl Rose of Guns N’ Roses is another figure facing accusations. California actress and model Sheila Kennedy alleges Rose assaulted her in 1989, using his celebrity status to gain access to and then violently sexually assault her. Rose denies these allegations outright.
Finally, fashion photographer Terry Richardson has been sued by two models who allege they were assaulted during photo shoots in 2003 and 2004 respectively. These lawsuits are particularly harrowing, as it is alleged Richardson photographed himself during the assaults and later published these photos without the models’ consent.
As these lawsuits progress, corporate legal professionals worldwide will be closely following developments. Their outcomes could ripple out to affect broader legal landscapes and societal dialogues around sexual abuse and harassment.